Getting hit by a bad case of the flu can have a very frustrating effect on your life. Lost work hours are one thing but being unable to do anything comfortably is just the worst. The flu isn’t like a simple cold. While a cold can slow your activities down, it won’t knock you for six in the same way that the flu does, and that means knowing the best ways to tackle the viral infection. If you’ve been hit by the flu then you’re probably looking for ways to speed up the recovery process or simply find ways to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Rest
The flu is very contagious, and you’ll be doing everyone a favor if you stay home and rest. No matter what your responsibilities are for the next few days, you need to rest. Whatever you normally do to rest at home, that’s what you should be doing. If you struggle into work or school then you’re just exposing others to the virus and delaying your recovery.
2. Hydrate
Your body is going to need liquids. You don’t have to just stick to water either. Soups and fruit juices are just as useful as a large glass of water. If you’re suffering from a particularly hard-hitting bout of the flu then you might also want to consider ordering some home treatment IV flu recovery, which comes complete with all of the fluids, medications, and nutrients that you need to speed up your recovery.
3. Painkillers
If you are self-treating, then make sure that you keep any emerging fever under control. That fever can make you feel worse than ever, so you’re going to need the right medications. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen are common options, but it may be worth contacting your doctor to find out which is most suitable for you.
4. Coping with the Cough
Hacking coughs are part of the horrible list of symptoms that the flu can cause. Make sure that you have stocked up on cough medicine so that you can turn any mucus build-up into liquid. This makes it much easier for your body to get rid of the causes of that cough, as well as the cough itself.
5. Humidify
Dry air in your home is only going to make your congestion and your cough even worse. If your home is overly dry then a mist humidifier can be very useful. That’s because it will moisten the air, making it easier for your body to cope with the symptoms of your flu. If your budget doesn’t extend to a humidifier then you can try some of these common tricks for adding more moisture to the air. You should try and avoid warm mist humidifiers though, as these can make matters worse through mold and bacteria growth.
6. Suck a Lozenge
The flu will dehydrate your whole body, and that includes your mouth. Having a dry mouth and tongue can make it more irritating to breathe, and will only make a cough even worse. A lozenge will help encourage some moisture, and will also help to coat your scratchy throat.
The flu is a virus, so antibiotics are not going to help. If your symptoms get worse and your temperature gets above 102 F (adults) or 100.4 F (children under three months) then get medical treatment as quickly as possible. The flu can be dangerous, but with the right treatment and the right self-care, you could be feeling back to your old self before you know it.
